CALIFORNIA GROWN
Looking for a way to celebrate California Wine Month? Why not try this Golden State-inspired version of the popular cocktail called the Lambrusco Spritz? Our CA GROWN inspired version of this go-to cocktail screams California cool and is sure to be your next favorite drink – perfect for celebrating California Wine Month. It not only tastes amazing but also highlights the incredible variety and quality of California wines. Grab your cocktail kit, and let’s dive into this CA GROWN alternative to the usual spritz.
A traditional spritz recipe hails from Italy. It is a beloved aperitivo, perfect for kicking off an evening or for enjoying a sunny afternoon. The classic spritz typically involves three key ingredients: a bitter liqueur like Aperol or Campari, sparkling wine, and a splash of soda water. It is typically served over ice in a large wine glass and garnished with an orange slice or an olive. The traditional spritz strikes a perfect balance between bitter, sweet, and bubbly. An incredibly refreshing and versatile cocktail, this simple yet sophisticated drink has become a staple in bars and homes around the world.
The Lambrusco Spritz is a modern twist on the classic Italian spritz cocktail. Traditionally made with Aperol or Campari and Lambrusco – a slightly sparkling red wine from Italy, the spritz evolved to include various sparkling wines. The modern Lambrusco Spritz cocktail combines the fruity and bubbly characteristics of Lambrusco with fresh grapefruit or other citrus juice and a splash of soda water, creating a vibrant and refreshing drink that’s perfect for any occasion.
Cuvée M Red from Mumm Napa serves as a perfect California-inspired substitution for the Lambrusco in this spritz cocktail. Where Lambrusco originates from Italy and has a slight fizz and fruity profile, Cuvée M Red brings a similar yet distinctly California twist. It embodies the same vibrant fruitiness and refreshing bubbles but is crafted with grapes grown in California’s fertile vineyards.
Another great California alternative for Lambrusco is Sparkling Negro Amaro from Rava Wines. This wine has a whole lot of character with its bold, fruity flavors that keep things interesting. Perfect for those who like their spritz with a bit more punch, Sparkling Negro Amaro brings a unique depth to the cocktail. Plus, it’s got those delightful bubbles we all love in a spritz.
For an added California touch, consider using Angeleno Amaro as a stand-in for Aperol or Campari in your California inspired spritz. This delightfully bitter liqueur is crafted in Los Angeles and brings a unique complexity to any cocktail. With its vibrant blend of botanicals, Angeleno Amaro adds depth and a refreshing bitterness that perfectly complements the fruity notes of the wine and the grapefruit.
The briny, rich flavor of olives perfectly complements the fruity bubbly wine. The fresh grapefruit wedge adds a vibrant citrus note that enhances the zesty kick of the cocktail. These garnishes not only add a touch of sophistication but also bring a burst of CA GROWN flavor. Our Golden State Lambrusco Spritz is not just another drink but a delightful sensory experience.
California wines are celebrated worldwide for their diversity and quality. From the cool coastal regions to the warm inland valleys, California’s varied climate and geography provides ideal conditions for growing a wide range of grape varieties. This results in wines that are not only rich and flavorful, but also reflect the unique characteristics of the region where they grow.
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